By now, some of you will recognize yourself in these descriptions. Learning to feel without taking on too much is a skill that takes some practice. You certainly don’t want to suffer or have to leave society because you’re so overloaded. I consulted numerous practitioners and other resources to find ways to control and enhance this energy. Here are some of the answers I found:

Be choosy, stay away from “psychic vampires” who want to zap your energy and learn to put up an “energetic shield.”

Donna Eden in her Energy Healing videos suggests zipping up your energy like a coat and locking it by placing your tongue behind your top teeth.

Marci Wolcott suggests visualizing cords at the bottom of your feet attaching you to earth. She also imagines golden cuffs at her wrists that stop the energy from traveling further.

Watch your diet. A vegetarian diet can leave some people untethered. Meat can help ground you.

Engage in a spiritual discipline, such as meditation or prayer. Chakra work was recommended by several practitioners for strengthening spirit.

Some people rely on crystals for protection, such as boji stones or quartz crystals.

Find a teacher, mentor or guide. Speak with others who have developed this skill. The Internet is a great resource for these connections.

Spend time in nature. Let the trees or the earth take the excess.

Respect yourself. If you need a break, take the time to recharge, whether with a massage or a long walk.

Learn energy work. After I learned reiki, I was less apt to take a client’s physical pain, but still able to instinctively find it on her body.

Take a break from too much negativity. Avoid the news, the newspaper and the needy neighbors for awhile, so you can rest.

Try to remain positive, and realize as hard as it is sometimes, this truly is a gift that can benefit others.

As you grow and mature as a healer and acquire a stronger sense of self, you will find that your empathy grows and changes as well. You’ll uncover a sharper sense of intuition and a better ability to shield yourself. As Reiki Master Eddie Rose says, “Every gift has its own purpose, and each gift is valuable. I am very thankful for it.” Accept your gift and share it generously with others!